In two hour-long films, viewers will see the Dark Knight Rises star trek across the continent, meeting farmers who have lost livestock to poachers, plus key figures from organisations fighting back against poaching.

"The story of the impact of wildlife poaching in Africa is one that is important to tell now more than ever," said Jo Clinton-Davis, ITV Controller of Factual.

"Tom Hardy's palpable concern and commitment to shedding light on what is happening and what the answers might be allow him to bring this reality home in a way that we believe will resonate powerfully with our audience."

"Tom's goal is to bring the senseless slaughter of endangered wildlife in Africa to the attention of the masses," added Dean Baker of production company Hardy, Son and Baker.

"This documentary is the first step of that process. We both hope it finds an engaged, empathetic audience who can be motivated to action."